Make a Nurse Appreciation Gift

Did you know this is National Nurse Week? This special week is observed every year from May 6th, which is National Nurse’s Day, to May 12th, which is Florence Nightingale’s birthday. This is a great excuse to send flowers or bring treats to your favorite nurse or nurses. If you would like to give something that is a little more unique, and a lot more fun, consider making one of these nurse survival kits. Basically, you gather together the supplies listed, put them into the zip-top sandwich bag, and staple the bag tag to the top of it.

Start out by downloading and printing out this bag tag onto heavy paper or card stock (Click on this smaller picture to get to the larger file and download that larger file):

If you prefer, you can download this PDF file of the bag tag.

Cut out the bag tag. It should measure 6-inches wide and 7-inches tall. Fold over the top of the bag on the dotted line. Set this aside.

Gather together all of the items listed on the bag tag and place them in a plastic sandwich bag that has a zip top. Each item has a special meaning and is explained on the bag tag.

Close the top of the bag and place the bag tag so the fold goes over the top of the sandwich bag. The tag should then hang over the front of the bag by about 2-inches and over the back of the bag about 5-inches. Staple the bag tag in place.

For easy reference, here is a list of the items on the bag tag and their meanings.

Lifesaver Candy: Because you are a real life saver.
Tissues: For those times when you have to dry tears, including your own.
Snickers Candy: To remind you that laughter really is the best medicine.
Sucker: To help you lick every problem you face.
Starburst Candy: For those times when you need a burst of energy.
Marbles: To replace any you might lose.
Jolly Rancher: To remind you to laugh at times when you feel like crying.
Stick of Gum: To help you get through sticky situations.
Mint: To remind you your compassion is worth a mint.
Rubber Band: For when you need to stretch beyond your limits.

Since you will be using a small plastic bag, buy miniature versions of the candies and other items listed. Put a single tissue in the bag or a small package of tissues.

Not only is this a fun way to say thank you to a nurse who has taken care of you or someone you love, it is also a fun gift for someone who is graduating from nursing school. If you make this survival kit, make sure you snap a picture of the recipient holding it and send it in and I will post it here and maybe even on our Facebook page.